Week 2 Waiver Wire
As the fantasy landscape begins to take shape, the waiver wire becomes a tool for proactive roster management. Week 1 offered a glimpse into evolving depth charts, emerging roles, and usage trends that go beyond box scores. Snap share, target volume, and red zone involvement are already revealing which players are positioned for expanded opportunities. Smart managers know this is the moment to act, not react. This week’s list is built on verified data and projected trajectory, not speculation. Whether you’re filling roster gaps or chasing upside, these pickups offer a chance to gain early leverage and long-term season value.
The following are suggested waiver wire pickups for week 2.
19% Rostered on Sleeper
Aaron Rodgers is rostered in just 19 percent of leagues, but if there was any doubt, the old man still has it. In his Steelers debut, Rodgers completed 22 of 30 passes for 244 yards and four touchdowns, showing sharp decision-making and his vintage pocket control. Arthur Smith’s offense looked more aggressive than expected, and Rodgers thrived with quick reads and red zone efficiency. While his mobility is limited, the arm talent and experience are still elite. He is a strong streaming option in favorable matchups and a smart depth add for managers looking to stabilize the quarterback position early.
10% Rostered on Sleeper
Daniel Jones is rostered in just 10 percent of leagues, but his Week 1 performance reminded everyone why he’s still fantasy relevant. Jones completed 22 of 29 passes for 272 yards and a touchdown, but it was the rushing upside that took precedence as he added 26 yards on the ground and scored twice with his legs. The Colts offense looked sharp, and Jones led scoring drives on every first-half possession, marking a career-best in passing yards for a single half. With a favorable schedule ahead and a clear starting role, he’s a high upside streaming option and a sneaky stash in deeper formats.
52% Rostered on Sleeper
Dylan Sampson is rostered in just 52 percent of leagues, but that number should climb fast. He led the Browns in total touches in Week 1, rushing 12 times for 29 yards and catching all eight of his targets for 64 yards. Even I was surprised by how involved he was in the passing game. That kind of volume, especially in PPR formats, is hard to ignore. With Cleveland likely to trail often and Quinshon Judkins still waiting to debut, Sampson looks like a reliable checkdown option and volume sponge. He’s a priority add for managers needing RB depth and flexibility.
76% Rostered on Sleeper
Jacory Croskey-Merritt is rostered in 76 percent of leagues, but if he is still available in yours, he deserves serious consideration. The rookie made a strong impression in his NFL debut, rushing 10 times for 82 yards and a touchdown while leading the Commanders backfield in both carries and efficiency. After a preseason filled with hype and questions about his role, Croskey-Merritt delivered with poise and burst. The depth chart appears open, and the offense is leaning into a run-first identity. He offers a reliable RB2 floor with touchdown upside and should be rostered in all formats moving forward.
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9% Rostered on Sleeper
Quentin Johnston is rostered in just 9% of leagues, but that number could rise quickly. He saw 7 targets in Week 1, converting them into 5 catches for 79 yards and 2 touchdowns. Jim Harbaugh has found creative ways to get him involved, using Johnston’s vertical ability and physicality to stretch defenses and create mismatches. With Greg Roman now calling plays as the Chargers’ offensive coordinator, the scheme leans into play-action and layered route concepts, perfect for Johnston’s skill set. He’s a priority add in deeper formats and a high-upside stash for managers looking to capitalize early on breakout potential.
7% Rostered on Sleeper
Calvin Austin III is rostered in just 7 percent of leagues, but he’s quietly carving out a role in Pittsburgh’s offense. He saw six targets in Week 1, catching four passes for 58 yards and scoring an 18-yard touchdown. Rodgers clearly believes in him, and the Steelers used Austin creatively lining him up in the slot, motioning him pre-snap, and giving him chances to work in space. That kind of usage is intentional. If the volume holds, Austin could emerge as a sneaky flex option in deeper formats. He’s a stash with real breakout potential and growing weekly relevance.
6% Rostered on Sleeper
Harold Fannin Jr. is rostered in just 6 percent of leagues, but that won’t last long. I knew it, Fannin Jr. is ready to break out, and this is his year. He saw nine targets in Week 1 and turned them into seven catches for 63 yards, lining up wide, in the slot, and even taking a direct snap. The Browns always have good tight ends, and he’s the next one. Cleveland clearly trusts him, and the usage is no accident. In a position group full of volatility, Fannin offers real upside and should be added in all formats right now.
29% Rostered on Sleeper
Brenton Strange is rostered in just 29 percent of leagues, but he’s quickly emerging as a reliable option in Jacksonville’s passing attack. He caught all four of his targets for a team-high of 59 yards in Week 1, leading the team in receiving yards and showing strong chemistry with Trevor Lawrence. The Jaguars are clearly designing plays to get Strange involved, and he’s cashing in on those opportunities. Lawrence has always liked targeting tight ends, and Strange’s versatility and red zone size make him a natural fit. He offers weekly low-end TE2 appeal and should be added in all formats before the breakout occurs.
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